Business Retention, Expansion, and Attraction. The importance of this work can’t be overstated.

Lead/Support/Endorse projects and demonstrations that attract new investment into downtown Saint Paul and strengthen its attractiveness as a regional urban center for commerce, entertainment, and culture. This includes partnering with the City of Saint Paul on the Full Stack initiative, which provides a full range of services to help tech and innovation sector businesses start up and scale up in Saint Paul.

Lead business retention, attraction, and expansion work across the region. We will partner with Cities and development entities across the region, including our close partners at the Saint Paul Port Authority, the counties, Greater MSP, and other chambers of commerce.

Workplace mandates. Local employment mandates are difficult for employers, particularly those with multiple locations. Partner in ongoing efforts to preempt local employment mandates on compensation, benefits, and scheduling, allowing the Legislature to control employment policy statewide. Of immediate priority is the proposed $15 minimum wage ordinance being considered in Saint Paul. Ensure the employer perspective is conveyed clearly; work closely with the City of Saint Paul City Council and Mayor’s office to ensure any ordinance outcome addresses unintended consequences that would hinder economic competitiveness.

Land use and tax base. Promote the message of the importance of a diversified tax base across the region. Advocate for no net loss of industrial land. Promote the importance of industrial and commercial land use in that it drives low-barrier job creation. Continue to be a strong voice for economic growth and expansion by being actively involved in major zoning discussions.

Minority and Women Owned Business Participation. MBE/WBE success is a proven dimension of economic vitality. Businesses owned by people of color and women increase the tax base and investment, enhance the diversity of those at decision-making tables, and provide an increased pipeline of diverse talent for the broader marketplace.